Inspectors to monitor school performance

Ysgol Ffordd Dyffryn was placed in special measures by school inspection group Estyn after a number of issues were identified with pupils’ performance.

There are 135 pupils at Ffordd Dyffryn, including 15 afternoon-only nursery children, and the school describes its catchment area as economically disadvantaged, with 39 per cent of pupils entitled.

The Estyn report raised a number of concerns with the school’s performance, including a limited range of learning experiences, the under-performance of boys compared to girls, and governors not holding the school to account.

The report acknowledges steps had been taken by acting headteacher Ruth Threadgold, who was appointed in March, to improve the school - but adds that she has been in the post too short a time to bring about changes.

Inspectors classed many areas of the school’s performance as acceptable or good; including its learning environment, the support and guidance offered to pupils and the rarity of bullying.

But after deciding that the weaknesses at Ffordd Dyffryn outweighed its strengths, Estyn placed the school under special measures and will monitor its improvements each term.

A statement from Ruth Threadgold, issued on behalf of the Board of Governors, said: “Together with the Local Authority we are continuing to work closely to raise standards and improve those areas that have been identified by Estyn as unsatisfactory.

"We look at their recommendations as challenges, and have already put a programme in place to ensure progress.

“We are already arranging to share these plans with parents and to involve them fully in working together to raise standards for their children.”

Janet Finch-Saunders, AM for Aberconwy, contacted the council to ensure steps were taken to improve the school.

Mrs Finch-Saunders said: “I am concerned by the outcome of the recent report and for the future of Ysgol Ffordd Dyffryn.

"Parents need reassurance that measures will be put in place to improve their children’s education, which is why I have written to the council.”